New York Knicks: OG Anunoby Should Be On The 2017 NBA Draft Radar

Dec 17, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward OG Anunoby (3) shoots the ball while Butler Bulldogs forward Andrew Chrabascz (45) defends in the first half of the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 17, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward OG Anunoby (3) shoots the ball while Butler Bulldogs forward Andrew Chrabascz (45) defends in the first half of the game at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 10, 2017; College Park, MD, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward OG Anunoby (3) shoots over Maryland Terrapins forward Justin Jackson (21) during the first half at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2017; College Park, MD, USA; Indiana Hoosiers forward OG Anunoby (3) shoots over Maryland Terrapins forward Justin Jackson (21) during the first half at Xfinity Center. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Offensive Versatility

It’s far too soon to label OG Anunoby as a player who’s ready to be a central focus of an NBA offense. The upside exists for him to develop into such a role, however, and there’s a realistic chance that he’ll do exactly that.

Anunoby does nothing at a consistently elite level on offense, but he’s well-rounded and willing to fill any number of roles.

Anunoby will need to stabilize his shooting form, but he’s already displayed an ability to knock down the outside shot. In Jeff Hornacek’s interpretation of the triangle offense, the Indiana star could find openings along the perimeter and capitalize on the openings provided to him.

Although Anunoby will need to significantly improve his handles, he has a quick first step—pre-injury—and is as good of a finisher as just about anyone in this draft class.

In transition, Anunoby has a combination of speed and power that few teams will be prepared to deal with. In the half court, his ability to rise up at the rim will enable him to get to the line and make frequent appearances on SportsCenter.

If the New York Knicks manage to draft OG Anunoby, then Phil Jackson will have found an offensive project that could pay dividends.